More and more suburbanites are enjoying the versatility and durability pickup trucks offer. In fact, the best-selling vehicle in the Untied States last year was Ford's full-size, F-150 pickup. But sales of Ford's compact pickup, Ranger, are not far behind. During the 1994 model year, Ranger ranked as the third best- selling truck. Pickups also appeal to budget-minded consumers. Retail price of a two-wheel-drive, regular cab Ranger starts at just over $10,000, which is comparable to a compact Escort or Chevrolet Cavalier. Ranger, first introduced in 1982, receives several safety improvements this year, including a driver-side air bag and one-piece magnesium steering wheel. A new front grille is the most notable exterior betterment. Ford markets a plethora of different Rangers, appealing to the needs and demands of buyers. Trim levels include: XL, XL Sport, flared-fender Splash, XLT and the premium STX. Six-and-seven-foot cargo beds are available and drivers may choose between two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Ford denotes extended cabs, which provide additional interior room behind the front seats, as SuperCabs. In all, Ford offers 22 different Ranger renditions. Our test model, a bright red, 4x4 SuperCab STX, had starting price of $18,428; and came loaded with amenities. Preferred equipment package, automatic transmission with overdrive, six-way power driver seats, CD player and other assorted items, brought the bottom line to $23,680. At 125.1 inches, SuperCabs offer the longest wheelbase, and an overall length of 198.2 inches. All SuperCabs feature six-foot cargo beds. Long-bed Rangers have a 114 inch wheelbase, and an overall length of 196.3 inches with a seven-foot cargo area. Short- bed wheelbase models measure 108 inches, with an overall length of 184.3 inches and include a six-foot cargo bed. Wheelbase is defined as the distance between the front and rear axle. Ranger's interior possesses many car-like amenities. The dashboard is similar to the one in Ford's totally redesigned 1995 Explorer sport utility vehicle. CD players, illuminated entry and anti-theft systems, all have gained popularity in '90s passenger cars; and all are Ranger options. Ergonomically speaking, Ranger has made great strides. The efficient dashboard layout positions controls within easy reach of driver and passengers. Temperature and fan speed are dial controlled. Headlights are activated from a dashboard knob. The dashboard receives a 12-volt power point to accommodate cellular phones and other modern conveniences. Upgraded windshield wipers are controlled from the left-hand side turn signal stalk. Ford says the new system improves wash quality while reducing noise. Lightweight doors open and close with ease. Our model included optional front bucket seats, and center bin for storage of CDs and cassettes. Two molded cup holders are in easy reach of both front area occupants. SuperCabs offer several advantages over regular cab editions. Two rear-cabin jump seats fold down, increasing passenger capacity. When these seats are stowed, there's enough room to transport golf clubs, groceries and other domestic necessities. SuperCabs are worthy investments, which increase resale values in an already burgeoning used-vehicle marketplace. Five-speed manual transmission is standard. Four-speed automatic transmission is optional on most models, and feature brake/shift interlock, which prevents the gearshift from slipping out of park, unless the brake pedal is applied. Ford's 'touch drive on demand' allows shift-on-the-fly from two-wheel to four-wheel-drive high simply by activating a dashboard button. Three different powertrains are sold. Horsepower on the base, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine increases from 98 to 112 this model year. Standard on all STX models is a 3.0-liter, V-6 powertrain, which now boasts 145 horsepower; five more than last year. Optional on all models is the 160 horsepower 4.0-liter, V-6. SuperCabs and long beds hold twenty gallons of unleaded fuel. Short bed Rangers hold 16.3 gallons. Fuel estimates of V-6 SuperCabs with automatic transmissions are 16 miles per gallon city and 21 mpg highway. Five-speed manual transmission improve figures slightly. While these numbers are not spectacular, they're on par with industry averages for pickups. Our test model, with 6,000 odometer miles registered 17 mpg combined city and highway driving. Ford assembles Ranger in Louisville, Ky.; Twin Cities, Minn. and Edison, NJ. |